Battle of Basra (1991)

The Battle of Basra (1991) refers to a series of engagements that took place in and around Basra, Iraq, during the closing days of the Persian Gulf War. These battles primarily involved Iraqi Republican Guard units defending the city against advancing Coalition forces, mainly consisting of U.S. and British armored divisions.

The fighting was characterized by intense armor battles, urban combat, and aerial bombardment. Iraqi forces, though numerically superior in some areas, were significantly outmatched by the Coalition's superior technology, air power, and training. The Republican Guard divisions, including the Hammurabi and Medina divisions, put up fierce resistance, but ultimately were unable to prevent the Coalition's advance.

The Battle of Basra was part of Operation Desert Saber, the Coalition's ground offensive aimed at liberating Kuwait and destroying Iraqi military capabilities. Significant damage was inflicted on Iraqi military infrastructure and personnel during the battle, contributing to the overall defeat of Saddam Hussein's forces in the Gulf War.

Following the ceasefire, Basra became a center of Shia unrest against Saddam Hussein's regime. The uprising was brutally suppressed, leading to further instability in the region and foreshadowing future conflicts.